Right Around the River Blog
9th Annual Rocketts Landing Sprints Regatta a Rowing Success
Post Date: 06-27-2012
Richmond is certainly a passionate River City: While our hometown currently leads Outdoors Magazine's quest to find the Best Outdoors City, Rocketts Landing is staying busy hosting a variety of outdoor events along the James River. And last weekend's 9th Annual Rocketts Landing Sprints Regatta is awesome proof of just how much the James River matters to Richmonders -- and our community.
On June 23, nearly 500 people came out to cheer on rowing clubs from across the region as they raced in our toughest-ever competition. Hosted by the Virginia Boat Club, The Rocketts Landing Sprints Regatta nearly doubled the number of competitors from last year, resulting in some stellar rowing talent and speed.
Eighteen clubs participated, representing five states and twelve cities, including some new event contenders racing for the first time! Top entries came from Capital Rowing Club, Rivanna Rowing Club, D.C. Strokes, Alexandria Community Rowing and the Virginia Boat Club.
Although the weather was hot, the temperatures didn’t get to the rowers or spectators, who both excitedly rowed and cheered throughout the regatta. And their enthusiasm continued well into the afterparty, where grilled food, fresh beverages and live music by Paul Franco and Jim McCauley was enjoyed by everyone along the riverbank.
“The Rocketts Landing Sprints Regatta was a tremendous success,” explained Virginia Boat Club President Steve Abbot. “We received very positive feedback from attendees on the regatta and venue. Thanks to Rocketts Landing and all our other sponsors for making this a great event!”
If you’d like to learn more about how the Virginia Boat Club and all the ways they get people out rowing on the river, be sure to check out their website. Or, stop by and pay a visit to their Rocketts Landing—based boathouse. You can also visit VCU Crew and Richmond Crew while you're here!
All in all, we’re pleased to play a role in bringing exciting river events to Richmond and look forward to next year’s Rocketts Landing Sprints Regatta!